Exclusive Catchpole & Rye Visit

Liveryman Tony O’Donnell, Director of Catchpole & Rye Ltd., has opened his high-end sanitary and plumbing factory especially for the Plumbers’ Company to visit in the depths of the Kent countryside at the Saracen’s Dairy, Pluckley.  Pluckley is regarded as being the most haunted village in Britain.   You will see a very successful business in operation of exclusively made baths & bathroom ware which are sent all over the world and a fascinating museum of historic sanitary ware.

Tony’s story began many years ago from a passion to sell, restore and maintain antique baths and sanitary ware. The desire to preserve the beauty of these exquisite antiques led him to today’s beautiful original designs, staying true to the methods used from times past, whilst still integrating perfectly with modern aesthetics. Today, a vast collection of timeless bathroom pieces make-up their collection, driven by the values of unique craftsmanship, superior quality and a genuine care for personal service.  All of the products are designed and manufactured on site, with a foundry being developed.

Tony is an expert on antique bathrooms and will give a talk on their history showing you some of the most historic baths and WC’s in his collection that are not necessarily in other museums.

The tour will commence at 1100 and tea or coffee will be available on arrival.  It is limited to 24, so do book early.

Location:   Saracens’ Dairy, Pluckley Rd, Ashford TN27 0SA     01233 840840

Travel directions:   By Train from Charing Cross (depart 9:02 or 9:40) to Pluckley Station (arrive 10:20 or 10:50):

You will be met and transported the short distance to the Saracens’ Dairy – the visit comprises the factory, show rooms and museum.

After the factory and museum tour, lunch will be served at The Dering Arms, right next to the station.  There will be two choices of main course, Beef Bourguignon or Chicken Casserole followed by Apple & Raisin Upside Down Tarte with Calvados Ice Cream, then coffee or tea. There will be an open bar.

Costs:   £25:00 per person for lunch.

Please book on-line and pay by BACs or download and complete the booking form and return it to the office.

Adrian Mumford

Clerk